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may your holidays and the new year be merry, warm, and bright

2016 was a rough year in many ways. Rougher even than 2015, which we described as,

“This year in particular, the news seems to be dominated by major tragedies and major challenges along with fear-mongering and divisive politics.”

Things went downhill from there.

But we also said,

“it’s more important than ever to embrace your friends, your family, your neighbors, and your community this season. Hug your loved ones a little bit tighter and a little bit longer. Put aside your differences in order to demonstrate the love and connection that outweighs them. Take a little extra time to catch up with your neighbors. Consider volunteering some of your time or donating holiday gifts or money to a local cause.”

It’s time to double down on that approach. Together, we are better than the hateful and divisive rhetoric that has drenched the airwaves. Our common values and our common dreams are not all that different from each other’s. It might take a little bit more work to find that common ground, and to explore and cherish the bonds that unite us. But that work will pay off.

Aristotle Onassis said, “It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light.” Love and light are all around us, but in these dark moments we have to choose to see them.

Please make that choice, and may your holidays and the new year be merry, warm, and bright.